Black Tie & Tales 11.25.15

Repetition makes reputation
There was no mistaking the theme of the “High Tide at High Noon” luncheon benefiting Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida Nov. 16, at the Sarasota Yacht Club. The speakers all used it, introducing themselves by saying, “I am (name), and I stand with Planned Parenthood,” as did the several models who had stories to tell. It was on the sign carried by all the models in the finale and many other places as well.

That marketing-savvy idea came from Planned Parenthood President and CEO Barbara Zdravecky. Her ally as Board President is Carolyn Johnson, just honored by SCOPE with a 2015 Boundary Crosser Award. What a team! 

Co-chairs Pauline Joerger, Bianca Lawrence, Mindy Rollins and Allison Scanlan produced a winning event, including matching a $10,000 donation with gifts from the jam-packed dining room. Lissa Murphy produced the fashion show, featuring apparel from Influence Style, Lotus Boutique, Blackbird Lifestyle and Dream Weaver and a cluster of gorgeous models, many of them dark-haired. Brunettes are back! NUOVO Salon & Spa did the hair and makeup, Tiger Lily did the centerpieces. Photographer and longtime Planned Parenthood enthusiast Barbara Banks was clicking away … with her phone. BT finally had to ask. Instagram! Of course.

Bow Wow!
Gloria Moss chaired this year’s Florida Poodle Rescue Luncheon, “Putting on the Poodle.” It drew nearly 150 guests, who were entertained by Wendy Feinstein and her dance instructor Luis Pena, and Penny and her Poodles. Florida Poodle Rescue founder Tricia Bonati Rolmes came in from North Carolina. Scott Anderson emceed a paddle raise to fund cataract surgery for a blind rescue poodle named Coco.  

Tidbits … Happy highlights from the AJC dinner … It was for many guests a first opportunity to meet the charming and attractive Dr. David Lipton, father of regional director Brian Lipton. He recently relocated to Sarasota and is in process of getting licensed, so he can volunteer at Friendship Centers’ Medical Clinic. There was also great heart for the news that AJC Regional President Anne Virag has signed on for a second three-year term. She is also one of the week’s … Birthdays, birthdays, birthdays … There were a bunch at AJC, beginning with Scott Anderson who shares his natal anniversary with AJC past president Sue Jacobson. Within the same week, Ms. Virag, Debbie Haspel, Mort Siegler and Graci McGillicuddy.